Inside the Phoenix Household. (Part 8)

As the soft winds blow

The dirt and sand below flow

The sun shines on the ground below

Giving it a soft and gentle yellow glow.

"Sova, before we begin let me ask you something."

Sis Yuwei suddenly broke her stance and speak. I do the same saying:

"What is it?"

"What do you understand about Martial Arts and the Artist thus far?"

"Well..."

Hmm, remembering what Sis told me it's...

"A combination of ways and technique used in order to gain the upper hand. Whether it is for sports or battle."

Sis Yuwei smiles and nods saying:

"Yes, a feather to you."

"Um, thanks!"

(Feather? I guess it's just like how May always give me a star whenever I answer correctly. She also told me that they do this at school too. It always gives me the fuzzies whenever I do get one).

Sis Yuwei folds her arms saying:

"But that is only true in the textbook and that's only half correct."

"What do you mean Sis?"

Sis Yuwei summons forth balls of purple flames saying:

"Back during ancient Iberos. During the Liberation Era, do you know who first created these Martial Arts?"

"Hmm..."

May never told me any of this in our studies. But knowing the tales and Sagas...

"Could it be Emperor Rucina?"

"Another feather for being right in the books but you're completely mistaken."

"What? Wait..."

(Liberation Era... It's the one millennia gap between after liberation and before liberation... So it has been practised for so long. I wonder if the Emperor is actually thousands of years old? And who actually created it then?)

I hold my chin saying:

"Could it be... That Emperor Rucina is thousands of years old even before the unification? So if I follow what you said, that means someone else created it and the Emperor only further improve it?"

"Good guess. A flock of feathers to you! It seems May's teaching is all coming to use."

"Yea!"

"As you said, It is true that he's the one who improves it but in true history not censored by the Theocracy is that Owlians are the first to use Martial Arts."

"What? Really!?"

"Yes, but that's enough history lesson. I'm getting tired to even explain so let me ask you once more. What is Martial Artist?"

"... Mmm, I don't know if what U say is wrong I guess it's a collection of technique?"

She uses her left hand to hold her right elbow and rest her head on her right saying:

"Phew, I guess I'll just spit it out. Martial Arts is the exploitation of the human body by using the law of nature."

"Exploitation? Nature what?"

Sis Yuwei's flame suddenly disperses into birds of different shapes and sizes before sending them afloat saying:

"As I control this bird I am practising the use of how much my brain can work. And..."

She gathers the flames on her wooden sword turning it into a fire enchanted sword.

(A wooden sword with fire enchantment... Magic sure is convenient).

She swings it around creating a ring of fire when she jumps closer to me saying:

"To train it means to use the advantage and weakness of both the human mind and body. Like how I can use a spinning slash for a major attack while no matter how strong your muscles and skin is, you are still weak in the joints."

Spinning mid-air and landing just infront of me as the purple flames engulf the area close to us. I quickly raise my hand but nothing happened.

(Whoa, I didn't burn? Wait what about the others?)

I look at both Saya and Yuria who is still okay then I see another little boy standing beside Saya who was not there before. He looks probably the same age as Saya wearing a very grand and opulent gold robe and a large red sash that covers his entire shoulders. His face is covered with the golden chains that hang on the tip of his tall and stiff golden hat. Yet with all that, I can still see his face a little, his clear blue eyes and long blonde hair that is the same colour as mine...

(Huh? Who is he? Could he be another spirit?)

When he realized I was looking at him, he smiles and waves at me. He points at Sis Yuwei who is still explaining saying:

[Be careful.]

Without making a sound. I shake my head when Sis Yuwei grabs my chin and makes me look at her saying:

"Listen to me when I'm explaining Sova. So, I'm sure you've experienced it yourself. Remember that male hunter who said to defeat you by locking your arms?"

She lets me go and I quickly try to answer saying:

"Ah yeah! He wraps his hand around both of mine when I dodge and I got pummeled in the chin."

She raises her sword above her head saying:

"Yes. Now that you understand. Let us begin."

"Huh?"

She suddenly swings her sword down right at my face. Her burning blade shines bright as a thought came to my mind.

(No way! Sis uses cheap tricks!?)

I quickly roll to the side barely dodging it. As I try to stand, her blade was already swinging it at the left side of my face. This time I quickly kneel and use my entire weight and both arms to block it with the spear as the pressure easily pushes me back. Making a mark of my feet and knee dragging the ground as we cross our blades, Sis smiles at me saying:

"Nice reflex. See? I exploited your obliviousness to get the first strike."

"T-that's not fair!"

(Could this be what that little boy is warning me about?)

As I try to push up, she didn't even budge a little bit, I was clearly losing even when I'm using both hands.

(Dammit! I really need to improve my strength more).

Sis moves her left hand around and moves her fingers without paying attention to me saying:

"Well, this is usual in Central. If you can't handle this. Then surely you need to train your base strength more. But since you're an Owlian that will take years to build up your muscles more."

"I don't have that long! I'm going to reunite my family a soon as I can!"

Without saying anything, I try to copy her trick and quickly divert her blade to my right and make a sweeping left kick aiming at her head. She didn't even lose her balance and right elbowed my ankle and just like that, my entire left leg goes numb and limp.

"Oh no!"

I shout in panic as I lose my balance. I try to back away by pushing away with my right feet when her right fist is already right infront of my face coming down at me... Just before it comes hitting me, I get to see Sis Yuwei's eyes which are overflowing and teeming with such murderous intent it hurts my chest and makes it hard to breathe.

(This is so different than what I feel when Sis Rubeca goes berserk... I'm fudged).

Her fist slams hard at my face, shattering the entire helmet I wear as it sinks into my skull. My entire vision blackens and my entire body fling far like a ragdoll dragging on the ground up and down before smashing far away from her. My armour breaks piece by piece and my body is damaged and hurt beyond repair, my vision blurs and dissipate, just like in the darkroom I almost died this feeling comes as I lose my breath.

Everything returned as I thought that, I snapped out of it seeing that her fist hasn't reached me, a surge of strength flows within me...

(This... This is just like... I must move! Roasted tounge poppers move!)

When time seems to slow and my vision widened to see even the small dust particles that seem to freeze in time. I let my instincts run wild. My left hand claw the ground and drag me to make a right spinning strike.

Her fist stops just as I spin and my blade swings diagonally towards her. As I face her, I could see her making a surprised face and in just a split second in this already slowed moment, I saw a shadow hiding her eyes as her mouth smiles ear to ear, making a malicious grin. Purple glow shows in the place where her eyes are as she looks down at me and before long those same purple eyes turn viciously red.

(What the-)

*cleaved*

My whole body was cleaved in two from my neck and diagonally downwards. A clean cut without me realizing the pain at all.

*tap*

I suddenly snap once again when I feel my nose being tap. Sis Yuwei taps my nose multiple times with her finger while using her left hand to grab the collar of my armour so that I won't fall down. Her blurry figure stands tall as I hear her saying:

"How many times did you envision your last moments?"

*huff* *huff*

I take a huge breather wondering what happened. I tried saying:

"I'm sure I *huff* I was *huff* Just like when I sunk into that..." My voice muffled by my exhaustion.

*huff* *huff*

"Sova... Proud of you..."

Her voice fades, she pulls me close and hugs me tightly in her arms. Feeling her caressing the back of my head, I fall even sleepier, I rest my head on her shoulder saying:

"I... I give..."

*slump*

*************************************

It was dark as long as I can remember, I sit alone in a soft bed as I hug my knees in fear with only a small light passing through the small slit in the door. I am alone, Mother and Father never woke up and was left there in the burning field filled with scattering steel.

"Mommy... Daddy... When will you come to pick me up?"

Their image is still fresh. And the thoughts keep scaring me as long as I wake.

*slam*

Bright light engulfs me as I hear the door slams open. There a small silhouette appears before me, standing gallantly as the light dims. Yet I still have to look down with how small she is and the fact I'm sitting on a tall bed.

"Wha! Who!?"

I saw a girl the same age as me, wearing a cap that peaked up with long black and blue feathers and a star shield with wings in the middle while her short green hair peaking out. She wears a steel plate inside a greatcoat when she tidies her sleeves and folds her arms asking:

"How long will you weep?"

Confused by her words I can only say:

"Weep? I-"

"Stand! I'll coddle you no more! You may have lost your parents but don't just stop. Look infront of you!"

She climbs the bed, but not before she quickly removes her boots and finally sits infront of me. I answer her back saying:

"I am looking infront-"

"That's not what I mean you buffoon! Now stand up!"

She jumps as she pouts with her puffed cheeks and lands on the floor. The shake causes me to lose balance and lay in the bed.

{Wait... Isn't this...}

Scared, I quickly stand on the order of this loud girl. When she wears her boots, she quickly jumps to take my hand and drags me outside the room saying:

"Now follow me."

I stop my tracks and grab the door to pull back shouting:

"But I don't wanna! I want my Mommy and Daddy back!"

"Stop acting so spoiled, I'm dragging you outta here and that's that!"

She tries her best to pull me out but I still resist shouting:

"You said my parents are lost, so they must be coming here to pick me up! So I'm staying until then!"

"You!"

She suddenly lets me go and I quickly fall down by my own strength. Feeling the burning pain on my knees and elbow my eyes begin to tear up.

*sniff* *sniff*

"Uwaahhhh!!!"

I let out a loud cry as I try to wipe my eyes.

"Aaah! This is the worst! I'm not going to let you ruin my career like this! I'm supposed to be the youngest female officer in the empire's history with many praises yet I'm stationed like this!?"

"Waaaahhhh!!!"

I cried as the tears won't stop. She clicks her tongue saying:

"Tch! Aren't you great that you can cry like this? Didn't your parents teach you anything!?"

*sniff* *sniff*

"Mommy and *sniff* Daddy?"

Certain words Daddy said suddenly resound.

[Listen, Sova, we as nobles are born to help anyone who need our help, no matter who it is. Even the ones that hurt you must have their reasons. So to do that, you must be strong. Strong enough to answer, question, and support those who need it.]

*sniff* *sniff*

I tried to stop myself to stop crying when she quickly turns around saying:

"Are you done? It seems you're parents did thought you to control yourself a little at least. Follow me, let's patch up those scratches."

*sniff* *sniff*

I look up at her face which seems to be full of grief as she waits. I tried to stand saying:

*sniff*

"Why are you sad?"

She suddenly looks at me with loathness in her eyes saying:

"Me Sad!? Ridiculous! I have no need for such weak emotions!"

She turns her back to me when one thing catches my eyes. An Insignia that looks like a four-headed owl with twelve wings covering a shield. I stand up and wipe my nose.

(Even with this burning pain, I will be strong, I won't cry nor fall back. I'll become strong and surprise Daddy with how strong I become when we meet again!)

I walk forward to her when she flutters her greatcoat as she turns around and walks.

(Sad... And coddles? I guess I'll do what I can to cheer her up).

I speed up and quickly open my arms and hug her with all my might from behind.

"Uwah! W-what is this!? What are you planning!?"

She shouts by my sudden cuddle. As she tries to escape, I tighten my hug saying:

"I'm giving you the cuddle. You said that you are tired of cuddling me so I thought maybe I can help you by returning the cuddles. Though I don't remember you giving me any, I will still wish to turn that sad face upside down!"

She stops struggling and relaxes a little before finally saying:

"I said coddle not cuddle You... Sigh..."

She lets out a long sigh before she holds my arms saying:

"Please let me go, I have no need for such deeds. I hate it."

"Why!? Is cuddling bad? My parents always give it to me."

She looks to the side saying:

"Please refrain from raising your voice near my ear. And... That's none of your concern."

"Don't your Mommy and Daddy give you any? That's sad..."

She looks down on the ground saying:

"It's not that they don't. It's more of they can't... I never met my father for I heard he died in the war as a traitor. While my mother... Is a special case. I would die if she hugs me."

Her voice grows softer from each sentence. I loosen the hug saying:

"Then let me give you the hugs you need. I shall help you enjoy the happiness you get from cuddles and other things you didn't get! That's at least I can do to help you and prove to Daddy that I am a strong boy!"

"Heh, you idiot. Maybe, I..."

She quickly turns around and pushes me away finally free from my hug. Maybe the room is shining brightly or that the light is shining down on her but when she finally smiles gently, the area around her glitters and shines as she adjusts her cap.

(It's very lovely).

She looks at me with her soft and cheerful eyes saying:

"Heh, amusing. Maybe it doesn't feel so bad to receive something like this. It's... This lingering warm and pleasant feeling, I never felt like this before... Thank you."

"See!? You're welcome!"

"Alright, you're right. You said you want to help me right?"

"Yes!"

"Then please do what I say from now on. You make it hard when you disobey me."

"Eh!? But... No, I'll follow you from now on. If it makes you happy, I'll help you with all I can! I'll make sure you're happy until my parents retrieve me."

"Hmph, your parents..."

She stares at me with curious eyes. I tilt my head asking:

"What's wrong?"

"No... It's nothing, follow me now. And let us patch you up."

"Um!"

I nod at her words when she starts to continue walking, I finally start asking what's bothering me from the start...

"Say who are you again?"

She suddenly stops and looks back at me. Even when she's facing me her eyes were hard to see as I feel the anger on her smile.

(I probably shouldn't have asked that.)

{And I still regret it to this day...}

"Excuuuse me!? You... You! Have you forgotten about me!? How dare you!? You... You big buffoon! I remembered your name and you forgotten mine!? Y-You're the absolute worse!"

She quickly jumps at me with an enrage puffed up cheeks and hits me with her small hands.

*ptonk* *ptonk* *ptonk*

"Ow! Ow! Ow! *sniff* I'm sorry!"

*ptonk* *ptonk* *ptonk*

"Fine! It's Maybelline Gremons! Maybelline Gremons! Remember it well!"

"Yes! *sniff* I will! I'm so sorry, so please stop hitting me!"

{Hahaha... Yes, the first time or rather the time I finally get to properly met her... She changed so much and I wonder if she got the hugging habit from me because of this? More than that, I wonder how she is now? Is she okay? I hope she is.}

*************************************

"Mmmph! May..."

Feeling the sun shines on my face, and my conciousness returning. I turn my head around on the very soft pillow.

(This... Feels very nice. I think I'm going to rest a while longer).

"... He's pretty cute when he sleeps."

An unfamiliar cheerful voice seeps to my ear.

"Yes, he is. It's pretty cute especially when he smiles like this."

I heard Sis Yuwei's voice as she caresses my head.

"Mhm, mhm. But he seriously looks like a girl even when he sleeps. People won't suspect it unless they get proof..."

I heard Yuria agreeing to both of them while making a statement of her own.

"Say, can I try to doodle something?"

Saya requested when I quickly realize and open one of my eyes a little and lookup.

"Tch! So you're awake... Well rise and shine."

Saya walks away and I realize there's Sis Yuwei just above me caressing my head and two others standing beside her. Yuria and that ghost boy...

"Ah, it's the ghost boy..."

"Me a ghost? Hahaha! Now that's a first! I think I might like this kid."

(Hmmm?)

I finally rub my eyes and open them fully. Realizing I'm sleeping on Sis Yuwei's lap I try to get up but Sis holds me down saying:

"No, just stay where you are Sova. You need the rest."

Following her suggestion, I look her in the face, realizing she already returned wearing her usual robe I continue saying:

"Say, Sis, I don't think I've ever told you your mother's last message did I?"

"Shhh~ it's okay."

Sis silence me as she lowers her head. Her purple hair gets close to my nose and I could smell a faint scent of flowers, oranges? And mint? When finally her forehead reaches mine saying:

"Rest Sova, I think I might use too much force on you. I'm sorry."

Feeling my cheeks becoming warmer I quickly push her away and hastily get up and back away.

"Sova, what is wrong? You've been running away lately. You know you can always tell me the truth."

(Really? Should I?)

"It's... It's just I feel extremely weird with women now!"

"Oh!"

"Heh~"

"Wha!"

All three of them reacted differently when Saya holds my shoulder saying:

"Wow, I can't believe you actually said it."

"What's wrong with me saying it?"

She lets me go and sits beside the group saying:

"Come to think of it, how old are you again?"

A little bit confuse by her sudden question, I respond saying:

"Me? I'm sixteen."

"Hoh~ such a young practitioner!? I haven't asked but who's this boy, your majesty?"

The young boy tucks his arms in his long sleeves and look at Sis Yuwei.

"Hmm... I guess I never really told you any of you my personal self, do I?

"Yeah, in the eyes of the people you're a rightfully strict ruler who cares for all and shows no sign of favouring one or the other. But just barely enough so people think you care. It is especially true in the new capital. Where you sometimes spend your time just sitting in the fountain.

And would even speak with the populace who approach you (As dangerous as it may be)."

She drags me closer and pets my head saying:

"You don't need to tell me. As for this boy, he's my sworn brother."

The boy raises his brows shouting:

"Sworn brother!?"

Before calming down saying:

"Sorry, I never knew you would make a pack like that."

"That's a given for we have known each other since we are little. So he is someone very precious to me. Though guesses are he frets not remember how we form it."

I look down in shame when she said that.

(I admit, I don't remember what we do to be sworn siblings...)

"Sorry, Sis."

She stops petting me saying:

"You need not worry. Just the fact that you still think of me as your trusted sister is more than enough."

I feel my cheeks getting warm. The boy smiles ear to ear saying:

"Interesting... You've piqued my interest."

I hold my reddened cheeks saying:

"Sis, you're making me warm..."

The boy stands up saying:

"Heh, aren't you one lucky boy. Really lucky... To make someone like her fawn over you. But more than that."

He stands up and clasps his hand before bowing down saying:

"I'm the newly appointed Supreme Crown Chancellor of the entire Phoenix Segmentums, Mikhail Bedreska. But you can always call me Mike like her majesty. Please to make your acquaintance."

Surprise by his sudden introduction, I stand up and try to copy him by clasping my hand and bow down saying:

"I-I'm Sova Anmao, I'm... Uh... I guess I'm just a citizen or what they call a Martial Artist though, to be honest, I don't know much about the illegal and legal things yet."

"Hahahaha! You do not need to introduce your title unless you have a job kiddo. And you need not stand for I stand so that I can see you eye to eye young'un. One last thing, you're her brother and part of the royals, you need not fret of a permit so it's okay."

"I-I see. I'll remember that next time!"

He nods delightfully and places his hands inside his sleeves saying:

"Yes, young'uns like you need to heed more advice from experience. I'm liking you more unlike the other practitioners nowadays... Maybe it's because of the tone you speak in sound so honest. Certainly soothing to hear nowadays."

"Um, thanks?"

(For some reason the way he introduces himself makes him very important... Or maybe it's because of the words? Maybe I should ask Sis).

"Say, Sis, is it me or the way he introduces himself makes him so high up?"

"Yes, he is very important."

"What!?"

She ruffles my hair and suddenly pulls me down to lay on her lap again and pin me down so that I can't stand.

(Why???)

I shout in my mind and she caresses my head again saying:

"Sorry, Sova. But I need this and don't ask why."

"But!"

She smiles peacefully as she closes her eyes and places a finger on my lips saying:

"No, buts either."

*whimper* *whimper*

I unwillingly let out a small whimper thinking:

(Nothing excessive is ever good... Except for sweets. I can never get enough of those... Well not like I ever eat more than a few candies every week).

Mike smiles and stands up saying:

"Well then please excuse me. I'm going to leave the two of you alone and enjoy yourself. If you need me you can find me in your archives."

"Oh, see you later then, Mike. May the spirits bless you."

He clasps his hands and bows down saying:

"Yes, see you later my Mistress, may the spirits bless you too."

Turning around when Saya suddenly appears saying:

"Halt! The archive? Can I follow you too?"

Mike looks back at Saya saying:

"Sarah is it? That depends on her Mistress. So what do you say, Your Majesty?"

"Go ahead, she deserves at least that much."

"Oh! Thanks a bunch, her Highness! Thousands of blessings to you~"

Saya says sarcastically when Yuwei just nod saying:

"Yes, yes, enjoy yourself. And Mike, take Yuria along with both of you."

"As you wish."

Mike comply to Sis Yuwei's words and tug Yuria's apron. Yuria suddenly looks surprised saying:

"Wait, but what about her Majesty?"

Mike pulls her hand like a kid wanting to buy a toy saying:

"It's alright. Now come."

"Ugh, but... But..."

Saya to starts to pull her other hand saying:

"Yuria is it? Listen to their words. I mean you can just return to him right? Besides this like their personal bonding thing and you don't wanna disturb that right?"

Yuria looks at them with worried faces and finally look down in defeat saying:

"Alright..."

As their figure grow smaller, I thought to myself:

(Maybe it's just me but seeing a scene where two kids are pulling a grown adult somewhere seems so familiar... Yes just like how I and May usually pull aunt around the neighbourhood. Though we're more akin of pushing her leg with her ginormous size... I'm still fond of those times... My family...)

"Fufufu, okay, I can't stand to see the sad look in your eyes so I'll tell you a little."

Sis Yuwei continues to caress my head as she says that. She halts her hand just on my forehead saying:

"To be honest, I was working my self to the bone since three weeks ago and finally got the time to finish and make a week of free time."

"Eh? Really?"

"Yes, but I use all four days to do my exams so that I could finish my school to get the certificate and solid influence on the northern shores and peninsula but I'm not going to explain that. Instead after exams, I was gonna get my head together for this year."

I look up at her asking:

"This one year?"

"Yes, those three days were supposed to be a vacation but you know what happened, monster showed up and I have to work again. Today is the last hours before I start working again... This was supposed to be my triumph. Just on this very same day, I was crowned and the beginning of my purge... The moment I discarded all my false and mistaken past and clawed a new one for the future."

Her smile turns into a frown as she grinds her teeth, her voice fills with sorrow and abhorrence. Realizing what I've done, I settle down saying:

"Sorry, sis. I... It seems I remind you of something sad. Please do use me as much as you want."

She suddenly looks at me surprise before smiling and caressing my head again saying:

"Oh~ Sova, the words that came out of your mouth is a thing to hear."

(At least she's not feeling bad anymore I guess that's fine... I wonder).

I grasp her hands tightly as the fear surge from the depths of my mind. Sis opens her eyes and looks at me with the sudden move I made. I look back at her asking:

"Since we're alone, would you answer me something, Sis?"

"Of course. What's wrong, Sova? Why the sudden question?"

"Say, Sis... You said you discarded your false and mistaken past. Well... I too have been finding out of my past that I can't even remember in the brief moments I was away."

I quickly hug her tight and bury my face on her stomach as to hide my expression saying:

"I- I've... For so long I can't seem to recall my parent's face or anyone I knew when I was still very little. When it suddenly came up it all contradict each other. My parents were supposed to be dead and suddenly when I saw my mother again she told me my dad was alive. Then there's that man we met during our way home that probably knew something abo me and so much more... I... I feel lost on what to believe in.

All of my past... I tried my best to shove it as an afterthought, I try to ignore it and think about it later... But if all your past suddenly becomes blurry and false. When it all came tumbling down and you don't know yourself anymore. Should I continue? Or like you, should I find a new path to tread on?"

*sniff* *sniff*

I tried to express what I'm asking but all the words I blurt out was a mess.

"Sova..."

"I... No, Sis, what Uncle Lixue said is true. I somehow use magic when I can't, I turn into a monster and almost died doing it and suddenly when I wake up I met someone I finally remembered all those years ago. You somehow know who I am. When I myself don't even know who or what I am anymore. Please tell me, Sis... What should I do? I said I want to unite my family, I said I'm going to learn new things and become stronger, exploring the world and ambitiously said to take you all around the world and etch my name is history... But... Do I really want that? Can I do that? I..."

I grab the back of her garment and pull as I look up at her from below as tears blind my vision and all seem blurry I ask her:

"Sis, you're the only one I can ask right now so please tell me, who am I? What am I even supposed to do? Or at least please tell me, what am I suppose to be!? I beg of you please don't keep secrets from me!"

I shout as mucus ooze out of my nose and tears drench my face. I shout from the top of my lungs at her trying to get an answer. She quickly wraps her hands around me and hugs me tightly. Feeling her warmth spreading through my body, I calmed down and hug her back. She pats my back saying:

"I'm sorry Sova. I'm sorry for not realizing how much you're holding yourself back."

*sniff* *sniff*

Even as her expensive robe is filled with my mucus and tears, she holds me dearly and even tighter than before.

*sob* *sniff*

I try my best to stop crying and stop my tears and mucus to come out. Before digging my head below her chest and stay in this warmth a little longer.

*************************************

"There, there..."

Sis comforts me while caressing my head as she hugs me. I finally stopped crying and lay my head on her laps. Seeing the sun covered by the gathering dark clouds, she continues saying:

"Sova, as for the answers to your questions, let me ask you this. Do you still love your family?"

"Of course I do!"

"Then just stay with them. There's no reason for you not to for they love you deeply as their own as well."

"I see... Thank you so much, Sis."

I relaxed and Sis continues to caress my head saying:

"So you wish to know how I manage to recognize you?"

I look up at her and nod my head in agreement saying:

"Yes, now that I think about it... How did you recognize me when we met in the diner? I mean you didn't recognize me when I'm wearing my helmet."

She nods and continues saying:

"Fufufu, alright, I admit, I was baffled. I don't know if I can trust myself when I'm drunk. But when you showed me your face my intuition instantly recognize it was you even with a new scar on your face."

"Really? Isn't that kind of dangerous? Using only your intuition like that?"

"Well, all's well and ends well. But I won't keep secrets from you anymore if it hurts you that much. Sova, I recognize you in multiple ways, and one is that do you know there is this aura around you? But this is no normal aura."

"Huh? What do you mean Sis? If it's my qi then yes I'm sure I do have it."

"No, it's the aura of camaraderie. That can only be seen by the followers of the Libera church."

"What!? But how is that possible?"

(Wait... I'm sure the Libera church followers are all Zerians... Nicole, is this his doing?)

"Are you truly not aware of what transpired?"

"What do you mean?"

"You may not know this but your mother and mine are actually close friends even back before she marries to my father you know."

"Wait, what!?"

"Think for a moment, Sova. Why would You and your family be accepted here? Inside the xenophobic royal family of the phoenix no less. Especially Owlians like you who can't even use qi."

"That's... That's a pretty good point."

"I kinda remembered the first time you arrive here. I was still ten back then and decided to sneak inside the throne room to see what the huge ruckus is about. It was only you and your Aunt surrounded by the entire Phoenix Family from all our Sector. I never knew how she got an audience but there she was. Arguing over saying something like:

"Please, accept this boy!"

It was a total mess when finally my mother (who is already a lingering ghost) found my hiding spot and saw you. She (or me) quickly steps in (when no one could see her so she uses me to sneak behind father) and persuades father who is the ruler back then (through me). And all of you were quickly accepted but thanks to the opposition you were given a room in the lower chambers."

Suddenly my heart becomes heavy. It got me thinking:

(Really? I... I can't believe I don't remember it! The only thing I remember is that there is so much shouting that I can't bear it. I feel so bad for tricking her... I understand Uncle Lixue's rage a little now. Is this what they say tasting my own medicine when Sis Yuwei use a trick attack?)

"I... I feel so bad now. I can't believe I have the guts to betray her trust like that. I-I want to say I'm sorry! But I don't think I can anymore."

"Then let me ask you, did she leave in peace?"

"I think I remember her saying I can rest in peace."

"Then that's good enough. In fact, I have to thank you for spiriting her away. For even if I put up a strong front, I don't think I can handle the sight of her leaving me again."

"No! That's not right! I-I treated her kindness and her trust like that. She called me a broker and I deserve that! Don't you feel even a bit of anger at me!?"

She touches my lips to shush me again saying:

"It's good that you realize your mistakes. But rather than dwelling on it, you should move on and try to reconcile in your own way."

She says in a soothing way that calms me down. I clench my chest saying:

"I... I'll try but I don't think I can forgive myself over that."

She smiles at me saying:

"Good, that's at least one step further. But then again, sometimes it's good to have something to regret..."

I relaxed and realized something... I look up at her again saying:

"Sis, that still doesn't explain why you could recognize me. I mean if you said that I possess an aura the followers of Libera can see, wouldn't that mean all of her followers also have said aura? What makes me so special?"

She stops caressing my head and holds my cheek saying:

"Oh~ Sova, you're seriously getting sharper and sharper, I'm quite happy and sad at the same time."

I look away saying:

"Um... Thanks."

"Yes, that is true. Be proud of it. As to what makes you special, well that's a complicated thing to explain but at least just answer me this. Don't you think it's weird that you never been harassed by her followers? The one who teaches such supremacist against the Owlians."

"..."

Silence overwhelms me as I delve deep in my memories...

(No, not even once. In fact when I once found one of the churches when I was travelling with Sis, the priest there even gives me a sad look and a candy. Telling me to endure my curse and a bright future will surely await... Could it be that I was blinded by how people treated me I can't remember those small kind times? And Nicole... I never really gave him back any of his gifs do I?)

"I... I really need to change. I can't even see the kindness... I really am a bad person aren't I- Khrurk!?"

Sis suddenly pinch my nose as I fumble my words and find myself suffocating before she lets me go saying:

"Please don't bring your self so low. In fact, do you know that her followers are very warry of strangers? So much so that a child would rather die than ask help from strangers."

"That's horrible! Why-"

(Wait... Doesn't that mean I save Nicole back when I found him? I-I never knew is that why he's kind enough to be with me? Maybe I should buy him something nice with the money I have now. Especially with that card, I can get him some expensive sweets that he likes... As I learn how to use it first.)

"Why the sudden silence?"

Knowing I can actually repay and make him happy I smile at Sis saying:

"Have I ever told you I actually have a friend from the Theocracy?"

"W-what! You do!?"

Sis suddenly stops caressing me and grab my face. Forcing me to look at her as she brings her face closer to mine. She smiles pleasantly saying:

"It seems Yeye Lixue have to swallow back his own words~"

Worried I quickly call:

"Uh, Sis?"

She takes a breather and calms down before caresses my head again saying:

"Yes?"

"Nothing... I was just surprised seeing you like that."

She closes her eyes saying:

"Sorry, I'll be honest Sova, I'm happy and surprised that you have a friend from the Theocracy. And you can use multiple arts to boot too."

"Um... Sis, thank you."

"Hmm? I don't know what for but you're welcome."

I get up and quickly look back at her saying:

"For answering my weird and ridiculous questions. No, for everything. I now know I need to keep going on this path. I love my family, and I love everyone I met here too. That's why Sis... I'm going to learn and grow up. I don't know when or how I'll repay you back but I'll make sure I will!"

"Pfff, fuhahaha!"

Sis suddenly covers her mouth as she laughs. Feeling my cheeks getting warm, I quickly shout:

"Don't laugh! I'm serious!"

"Fufufu, Sorry Sova. Your questions are not really that hard to answer, to be honest. And- and it's not like you to act so seriously like that! It's, it's- FufufuHAHAHAHA!"

Sis laughs so hard she fell to the ground as her long thick luscious purple hair flows and cover her whole face while she holds her stomach.

"Uuurhmmph!"

I pout and look away from her in spite.

(How could she laugh! I was finally serious and she laughs like that!)

"Fufufufu, alright, alright, I had enough... Sova?"

I ignore her and continue looking away.

"Please look at me. I'm really sorry."

Sis says in a sad tone. I look back a little to see her if she really is sorry and instead, I saw her brushing her hair away and seeing her making a smirk.

(That's it!)

"Hmph!"

And look away again.

"Aww~ don't be like that."

Sis says in a happy tone. I look back at her saying:

"What happened to grow up and acting more mature!?" and look away again.

"Well..."

Suddenly I felt her arms wrapping around me as she pulls me closer and digs her chin in my neck which tickles. She hugs me close and continues saying:

"Five years... I said that since you're dating May, you should lessen your skinship with other women but I think I'll take that back. I'll admit if I can tease you I would but..."

She tightens her hug and softly says:

"I just want to hold you like this. Five years may seem like a short while on the grand scale of things. But for me, after realizing how important the things I still hold now. It really pains me to make such decisions."

"Sis..."

When she moves her head and feel her breath tickling my ear she whispers saying:

"Would you please let me be selfish and just stay like this?"

(Right, I'm not the only one who is having a hard time. Everyone ks having their own problems they have to face).

"If it helps you feel better then sure! I did say to use me as much as you want."

"You're becoming reliable..."

She suddenly weakens her grip and I suddenly feel her weight pushing me down as she whispers:

"Thank you."

*************************************

When the sun sets between the mountains

When the gold grey skies shed its tears

Windows covered by the pouring droplets.

I turn away and walk these diverging paths.

"Here's your room Sova."

Sis Yuwei grabs my shoulder and stops me.

"What? Really!? Thank you so much, Sis! But are you sure it's okay for you to waste your time helping me change clothes and finding my room like this?"

(At least I'm finally wearing a male robe).

"Of course, I just want to spend more time with you. But since it's getting dark and after that training, I suggest you quickly rest. After all, you have so many things I need you to do tomorrow."

She opens the door for me as she says that.

"Really? Okay then, see you tomorrow."

"Yes, rest well for tomorrow. I'll prepare the stuff you need and give you your assignments.

I enter the room saying:

"You rest well too, Sis. If there something I can do please just tell me!"

"I will. So you remember your room now right?"

I nod saying:

"Yea."

She smiles saying:

"Good," and closes the door as she says that.

I look around the room again and realize it's been cleaned and the bedsheets I fold was even tidier. But there is only one problem now... It's getting dark but there's no lantern here.

(Hmm... I wonder if Sis Fei's home yet? I didn't even saw her anymore after breakfast).

"Maybe I should see her. But, it's late and she must be tired after school so I think I'll spend time with her tomorrow before she leaves or now to deliver the message to her. Wait, if I follow her and... I could finally see what a school is like! No wait, I still need to explore and learn so I guess it's still a while before I can spend time with her but in the end, I will meet Sis Fei and enter her school (probably) so all's well end well.

I try to arrange the things I need to do tomorrow as I fall on the soft bed and feeling my self bouncing a little.

"I don't want to sleep yet, but I don't know how to make light..."

*knock* *knock* *knock*

"Wah! Who's there!?"

I shout but only silence answers my call.

"Um... Sis Yuwei? Saya? Or Sis Fei Is that you? Or is it you Yuria?"

I walk to the door and open it to see outside the door but quickly found out its empty outside

(Could it be...)

I quickly close the door and reach for my shelf, grabbing my crooked and broken retractable spear. Even though I can't use it like usual, it's still long enough to be a short sword or dagger.

{Those who trespass life and death may they live in peace and tranquillity in their next life before blessed by the spirit king then mould to flesh}

Quickly I chant and my weapon illuminates the room.

(Ah, it's bright now. Why didn't I think of this? Hold on...)

"I'm going to change. Sis Rubeca said that all spirits are greedy but I wonder if it's true?"

I put the weapon on the table and as the light dims and shadow surrounds me once more, I walk forward a little saying:

"I'm sorry, it's okay. I won't hurt you."

I wait for an answer when...

*knock* *knock* *knock*

The sound came from the wall near the door. I take a breather and walk closer. Waiting for another sign.

*knock* *knock*

The sound came from the weird white rectangle shape with a huge circle in the middle. Similar to the thing called lift or elevator...

(So I just need to press it right?)

"You're trying to help me? Thank you."

I quickly press the huge circle which it won't budge or push in...

"Um..."

I tried pushing it harder but still, it won't budge. I push it up and down which did nothing when I add more force it makes a little snap and I quickly back away saying:

"Why am I bad with this..."

*sigh* *sigh*

"Huh!"

I hear someone else's sigh and the huge round part twist and the room lit alight. I realize a finger was formed as black feathers blew my way and it continues till it forms into an arm and connects into a body and darkness quickly form before disappearing into black feathers and a person appear before me.

"It seems it's worse than what my sister has told me. I can't stay in the shadows if it's like this my Mis- I mean Master."

His voice was calm before he finally flustered in the end. He's a man on his teens with a slim figure and long messy black hair which is tied up like a tail by an expensive-looking ornament. His sharp deep blue eyes feel like it can pierce through my soul.

"Who!"

The most eye-catching thing is his huge purple cape. With black feathers on his shoulders that connect to his demonic half-plate armour and cape which wraps around his neck and his long black coat. He kneels down and I could see an emblem on his cape. It's the same emblem of a bird eating its own wing, similar to the one I see with that huge man.

He places down his ominous-looking yet really cool black gun-swords that are connected to each other like those opened expensive wooden slips. And with the exception of the first two, the swords get shorter as it goes down. The swords look like a mix of a sheathed katana and a rifle. And the thing that catches my eyes is the different cute bird- What do they call it again, stickers? Plastered on the grip of each sword. The first thoughts that came to me are...

(I'm going to ignore that but other than that, he's so cool! I never knew you can be so cool with feathers. Can I be that cool if I wear clothes like him? And that weapon! How can I get one of those! Nicole once showed me something similar and I always want one!)

"... I fear that my interest is pretty much aligned with Sis Fei... I wonder if my room will be the same as her in due time?"

I whisper very slowly when he looks up at me saying:

"Please forgive me for not showing myself immediately Master. This undeserving one is named Kokkan, I shall be your honour guard and servant till her majesty says otherwise."

"O-oh? Um... You're not a spirit are you?"

"No, this servant of yours is alive and well, you can hold my hands if you wish for proof."

He removes his right gauntlet and pulls his sleeve up, presenting his arm which is filled with deep scars and says:

"Again, this servant is very sorry for scaring you, Master."

I look away saying:

"No, no, no, it's okay. I guess I should introduce myself now. Your new servant's name is Kokkan, just Kokkan. Pleased to meet you."

He wears his gauntlet again and quickly speaks saying:

"Forgive me master but if you would let this servant speak?"

"Uh? Yes?"

"Thank you, I believe you've met my sister Kanami?"

"Kanami? Wait, Sister?"

He nods saying:

"Yes, she told this undeserving one about you and your circumstances when I first arrive. So please, I've only been task recently to guard you this evening by her majesty herself. Use me as you see fit."

"What? Sorry, this is too much to take."

He widened his eyes in worry saying:

"Oh, forgive this servant of yours... Then I'll wait in the corner and if you wish to change just say so and I'll leave this room immediately. Or do you wish me to leave now?"

I back away a little saying:

"Wait... I'm getting more confused. So Sis Yuwei send you to guard me recently?"

"Sister...? I mean, Yes. Yes, her majesty did."

"And you heard of me from Kanami?"

"Yes, you are true once again."

(Hmm... Okay, I think I know what to say for now).

"First, please treat me like you treat your friends. The way you're doing now is really making me nervous."

He suddenly looks down and stiffens in his bow saying:

"Ah, right! Forgive my insolence, I also heard you were never treated like a noble. I'll do as you wish... But can I say something?"

"Oh, sure."

He looks up at me with worry saying:

"I never really had many "Friends". So I too don't really know how to do it. I too am still learning. So forgive me for my blunders in the near future too.

(What!? That's sad!)

"O-oh! No, no, no, it's okay. You don't need to feel sorry. I'm the one who should. Then..."

(I guess since I can order...)

I smile at him saying:

"Here's my first order, please do treat me like a friend or should I say, let us be friends. So call me by my name. Wait she told you my name right?"

He widened his eyes in surprise and avoids looking at me saying:

"Yes, yes she did, thank you... Sova."

I smile triumphantly and fold my arms. Nodding to myself thinking:

(Yes! I finally have another male friend! Talking about friends... I wonder how is Sis Fei doing now in school if what Yuria said is true.)

He suddenly laughs softly and looks back at me with a soft smile saying:

"I see, even after cruel fate befell you. You still treat everyone with care... You are truly kind."

I suddenly feel disgusted...

(I wonder how he could still look like a man even when he smiles like that!? What about me? People keep mistaking me!)

He suddenly looks at me worryingly saying:

"Master, did I offend from what I said? Forgive me!"

Quickly he slams his head on the floor as he begs.

Seeing the story state he's in, I grit my thoughts saying:

"No, no, no, don't misunderstand, it's... It's something personal for me. So please don't hurt yourself."

"No, it is still wrong for me to assume things."

(Assume things... Ah right!)

"Um, please raise your head. I don't think I can speak to you normally like that."

"I see, thank you, Master... Sova."

"let me get things clear before it all get too complicated. I'm a man so please don't misunderstand."

"Yes, this undeserving one know. Do not worry, I'll treat you like a man as much as it is capable."

(As it is capable?)

"Wait, you misunderstood, I'm really a man! I hate to say this but ask Yuria and she will tell you so!"

"If it calms you down then I shall when the time presents it. But for now, what do you need of me?"

(It seems he won't budge! Fine... Since he's a man I guess it's fine to at least show my top... Right?)

"Fine, if you won't budge. I guess I'll have to-"

*knock* *knock* *knock*

I stop mid-sentence and look at the door where the noise is coming from before looking back at Kokkan asking:

"Is that you? Or is that really a spirit?"

"I'm sorry Master... Sova, Sadly it's not me nor a spirit, Probably. Do you wish for me to open it for you?"

"I guess, please do."

"As you wish Master... Sova."

He quickly grabs his swords and proceeds to open the door.

*klick*

"Good evening Master Sova, I, Yuria have returned to you. I'm sorry for leaving you that noon."

Yuria is already bowing down when the door opens. When she looks up and see Kokkan instead, her face suddenly turns sour shouting:

"Kokkan! Wha- Wha- what are you doing here!? Where's master Sova? Don't tell me you- you swing that way!?"

Kokkan quickly raises his hand saying:

"Senpai, please calm down. Master Sova is there see?"

He moves away and presents me. Yuria walks closer to me saying:

"Oh, are you okay now master? It was an order from her majesty and the chancellor. Forgive me."

"Yes, it's okay. But why are you here?"

She looks at me disappointingly saying:

"Are you really asking that?"

Baffled I try to answer but came up with nothing.

"Um..."

"Not to insult your smarts but let me remind you. I was tasked to be your maid for a day but it seems I've been tasked for more than that just recently."

"Ah right! So-"

"And I promise that I'll serve you till you find true happiness. Please don't take my vow so lightly Master."

She quickly cuts my words and I can't help but look down in shame saying:

"I'm sorry..."

Yuria suddenly puffs her cheeks and hug me shouting:

"Ah~! Whatever! I don't care! Just this once! So don't forget alright!?"

"Really? I mean I forgot-mmph!"

She hugs me tighter and stops me from speaking before letting me go saying:

"Yes, now do you mind letting me talk with Kokkan?"

(Huh for what? Well I guess that's fine- wait...)

I look at her saying:

"Sure and please clear the misunderstanding that I'm a woman."

She gives a big smile and a thumbs up saying:

"Yes, leave it to me. If you'll excuse us."

"Sure. I'll leave it to you."

Yuria nods in confidence and quickly turn back to grab Kokkan's arm saying:

"C'mon, let me talk with you about something."

She pulls him but he resists saying:

"But... His safety-"

"No buts! Come! This is an order! And besides, it's just the corner of the room."

He stops resisting saying:

"I see..."

He stops resisting and Yuria pulls him in a corner of the room and starts whispering...

"Kokkan, why are you here? You're supposed to be in the New Capital..."

I decided to give them some privacy and just confirm if there is still anyone outside. Peeking my head out, I see the halls are empty as always and decide to close the door. I walk to the bed and sit down as I wait...

(What should I do? Should I cultivate again? I mean it's not like I have any night activities).

"But... But I can't sleep in the same room with a girl."

(Wait a second, what?)

"What girl? The only girl in this room right now is me."

"But..."

"Why don't you go and check it yourself? I can assure you it's very real."

"H-how can I!? That's- that's ridiculous!"

(How can I not listen now...)

Kokkan suddenly shouts and when they look back at me for a while, Kokkan lowers his head saying:

"Apologies."

And turns back again to continue whispering to each other saying:

"I'm sorry, but I can't... It's too much!"

"Well, the real question is if he really is a girl why are you sneaking into a girl's room for?"

"That's... I was..."

Kokkan voice grows lower till I can't hear it.

"Crows got your tongue?"

Yuria elbows Kokkan repeatedly as she asks.

"Ugh, no I still won't do it... Wait, if you're telling me that. Does that mean you've done it yourself?"

"Of course."

"Y-you're lying! Yes, you're definitely lying!"

"Really now? You know you could always strip him off."

"That's even more absurd!"

"Well, suit yourself. You'll be the one to suffer. I'm always trying to help."

"Tell that to the past you from back in the village. You can't even do laundry or any house labour."

"Hey, I'm a lady. Labour is not my forte."

"Says the girl who works as a Maid."

*Smack*

"Oof!"

"Well if anything happens I'm not responsible."

Kokkan falls to his knees and lets his weapon go. While he is staring at both his hands, Yuria walks closer to me saying:

"Master, I'm sorry that I can't convince him fully. But at least he's contemplating his decisions."

"O-oh! I guess that's better? Either way, thank you."

She smiles pleasantly and dusts away her apron saying:

"No problem! So what do you need next?"

I look up and swing my feet back and forth as I think...

"To be honest... I don't know."

I answered her as I still looking up.

"Hmm? What do you mean? Surely you must have something to do at night? And you're also a Martial Artist, won't you continue cultivating? Usually, that's what I see practitioners do."

"I mean I could but to be honest I wish I could do something else."

"Wow, this is the first time I heard a practitioner say that. I mean isn't the point you learn those stuff so that you dedicate your life into it? You know, being immortal and that good schlock."

"True... I think? But then again, what does schlock means?"

"..."

Yuria stares at me before saying:

"You don't know?"

"Uh, no. And I always use another word I don't know like jizz since it sounds nice like that rare form of music called jazz. But what does that also mean? Like one of my precious friend use it so I just copy him."

"You... You're so innocent it's a sin!"

Yuria suddenly hugs me again, rubbing her cheeks on my hair before saying:

"All right, you don't need to know. Just keep yourself pure and innocent?"

"But can I?"

"Huh?", "Eh?"

Kokkan suddenly looks at me funny and Yuria stops rubbing her head. I continue saying:

"I lie, I hurt people, I sometimes haggle and even betray someone who helped me. Can I be called innocent? Can I be called pure?"

Yuria stops hugging me yet her hands still clutching on my shoulder asking:

"You're still a virgin right?"

"Huh?"

Surprised by her sudden question, I ask them back saying:

"Um... What's a virgin?"

(May and the other sometimes speaks those words which I never understand).

*whew*, "Never mind then!"

Kokkan calms down and Yuria continues to hug me again as she pets me and rubs her cheeks on my hair.

(Why do people keep doing this? I mean it's not this bad back then...)

"Still, won't you answer me?"

I ask once again and Yuria still clinging to me saying:

"Oh, Master Sova~ listen."

She backs away and tidies her apron to continue saying:

"Here's a nugget of wisdom from me caretaker. "It's easy to spot the smallest detail on a bad thing. Yet hard for someone to find even the obvious of good things. So rather than dwell in the foul of your actions I say we look at ourself once again and go forward to be exemplary. But remember, never forget your past or you shall repeat your same mistakes," you get all that?"

Yuria smiles pleasantly as she said that.

"So even if I'm forgiven or not, I should keep moving forward? To be a better person?"

I try to speak interpret her words into a smaller sentence and she nods saying:

"See? You catch on quick."

I close my eyes and smile saying:

"Yes, Sis Yuwei did say something similar... But in the end, I know I can't forgive myself. Then again, all of you are right, I should keep moving forward and strive to be better... Thank you, Yuria. You really helped me out."

"Of course! I'm glad I could help! It truly is an honour for a retainer to help their Master."

"You know, we've only just met today but you're already like someone close... I hope we can keep it like this."

She hugs me again saying:

"Of course we can! You may be born with blue blood but we share so much in common! And I did pledge my loyalty to you and all. But other than that. Don't you do something else? Like anything at all? Any hobbies? Something you like to collect? Anything?"

"Wait, you did what!?"

Kokkan suddenly interrupts. Yuria lets me go saying:

"As you know, if we maids haven't sworn our loyalty yet, we can swear our allegiance to the Master we want. And I choose him as my Master. Even if it's a misunderstanding, a pledge is still a pledge to him.

*siiiigh*

Kokkan lets out a long sigh before saying:

"Well, that's fine. But you need to remember Master... Sova. Right now she is tied to this house for a few weeks before she can finally leave. So until then, she will only serve you in this palace, do you understand?"

"Really? Is it true Yuria?"

She looks down saying:

"Yes, it's true. Forgive me."

"No, it's okay. But I guess that's fine. Thank you for telling me Kokkan."

"It is my pleasure."

Kokkan nods and I look at Yuria again saying:

"Well as for your answer..."

As I try to recall what I did before going training...

"I usually write letters for Sis Fei then my childhood friend usually visits and we spend time together. Sometimes another friend would barge in and we would try playing something with what he brings... (Now I miss those times). But other than that, no. Since I sleep early when it gets dark and oil is pretty expensive to buy, clubs are for adults, night strolls are dangerous, night stuff is more expensive, and the fact I can't really do much during nighttime other than writing letters to Sis Fei."

Both Yuria and Kokkan look at me with a surprised face. Yuria moves her face closer to mine saying:

"Wow, you're actually more and more of a peasant like us than nobles. In won't be strange if you said that you're born in a barn... Urmph! Okay then, let me tell you something!"

Surprise by her sudden burst, I back away a little saying:

"Um, sure?"

She brushes her nose saying:

"You see, even Kokkan have things to do at night when he's free. Right Kokkan?"

"Wha! I-I have no such thing!"

"Don't lie to me Ko-chan!"

"Wha! Don't call me that!"

"Besides, one time I saw you sneaking in the kitchen and make some secret dealing with the head chef."

"How-"

Kokkan eyes widened but Yuria quickly cut his words saying:

"Saying something like, "You got the stuff?" And when I thought you're doing something deprived you were just slurping red syrup-"

"S-shut up!"

Kokkan quickly grabs Yuria's mouth as his face turns red.

"Pffff, Hahaha!"

I can't hold my laughter as I fell to my bed and look at the ceiling.

"Okay, but I wonder, what's wrong with him drinking syrup? I mean I like syrups too... Even though I seldom had any."

Kokkan sits on the table saying:

"Well, you see, a grown man is not supposed to like sweet things but instead bitter things like black beans or the Golden Herbs. Things that you see your parents eat and drink. Those sweets are usually reserve for children and most ladies to enjoy. If people see a grown man eating sweets it'll be an embarrassment."

"But I like sweet things..."

I look down in sorrow thinking,

(I never knew... No one told me this before... I guess you learn something new every day... Come to think of it, I never saw Aunt Palka or Sis Rubeca drink those stuff or like how Sis Yuwei drinks that ridiculously bitter tea... Then again, I wonder what did my real parents drink or what are they really like?)

I close my eyes as I try to suppress my anguish but I still can't.

(Why now? Why not back then when I probably still remember them so vividly?)

"-Master!"

"Huh?"

Yuria came to my view as I feel her shaking my shoulder.

"Are you okay!?"

"I-I am, what's wrong?"

I ask the worried Yuria in confusion. She lets me go and back away saying:

"Oh, sorry Master. It's just that your face is full of grieve, is it of what Kokkan said? If so-"

"No, no, no! It's okay!"

I stand and stop her and look around seeing Kokkan is gone.

"Where is Kokkan?"

"Oh, after seeing you like that. He said that he's going to get something."

"I'm sorry for worrying both of you."

"No, it's okay. More than that what happened for you to make a face like that?"

"Oh..."

I look away and continue saying:

"When Kokkan said-"

"Master!"

Kokkan cuts my word off as he suddenly slams the door open. Presenting me with a weird brown thing wrapped in a napkin...

"What is that?"

"It's a snack."

"A snack...? Oh, if you're trying to cheer me up I can appreciate your effort."

As I take a closer look, it looks like one of the rare food that actually makes a crunch sound with its uneven texture...

"But, r-really? Is this a snack?"

Yuria looks at me saying:

"Yes. Don't you know about it?"

"No, I never saw anything like it? I mean even the convenience store doesn't sell anything this... Weird..."

"I see, then let me explain."

(Maybe this will get my mind off it).

Kokkan says in a calm manner as he nods before suddenly smile and flutters his huge cape.

"INTRODUCING, my favourite snack, the limited edition... Beat the Tonggu's..."

*don* *do do don* *do do don*

(Where is the sound coming from!?)

*DON*

"Erickson Bars!"

He raises the snack high above the imaginary clouds and continues saying:

"All of its contents are made from the unique resources that can only be found inside the Aologi Frontier. It's outside is sprinkled with crunchy bites and layered with the most exquisite chocolate."

(Wait, did he just say chocolate!?)

When he brought it closer to my mouth, I try to keep my mouth shut and back away but my eyes are quickly drawn in by the promise of exotic sweets.

(I want to quickly bite it- No! I have to hold it...!)

I close my eyes and suck my own bottom lip while he continues saying:

"It's inside filled to the brim with both the thick caramel and with some juicy peanuts butter."

(I don't know what a caramel is but I have to hold it...!)

*gurgle* *gurgle*

(I failed...)

Both of them look at each other before setting their gaze on me. Feeling their intense stares, I feel my cheeks getting warmer and I cover my stomach saying:

"I-I'm sorry!"

"Ho~ So you're hungry huh? Isn't this perfect? Ko-chan?"

"I told you, don't call me that! But yes... I guess it is. Here you can have it."

He hands me his snack as he says that.

"Really? Something so precious!?"

(And here I thought he's tormenting me or something. But why did my stomach sound now?)

He nods saying:

"Of course, think of it as my greeting gift."

I hesitantly take it and as I stare at it, I can't help but smile and look back at him saying:

"Thank you so much."

Kokkan's face suddenly reddens and he backs away.

*smack*

"Ow! Seriously, stop that!"

Yuria brushes her hands saying:

"Don't you dare fall for him."

(Huh?)

"Wha! I-I'm not!"

Kokkan quickly rejects her statement and Yuria folds her arms saying:

"Unless you forget what I told you, he's a guy. And besides, are you sure you chose the right profession? Cause you sounded like a proper salesman."

"S-shut up, it's because it's one of my favourite things. That's all."

As I continue to see them banter, I look at the snack he gives me and finally takes a small bite to take in the taste.

*crunch*

"Mmmm~"

My lips quickly curl into a smile and the sweetness spread across my mouth.

(It's so sweet and crunchy and there's actually peanuts inside too! And this thing he called caramel only doubles the sweetness too, it's perfect!)

My smile becomes wider and wider until I finally have the last bite. Realizing it's finished, I feel that it's still not enough.

(It is a gift so maybe having restriction makes it more special and delicious).

I hold my stomach saying:

"Come to think of it, I haven't really had dinner nor lunch yet. Alright, let's go have something to eat... There is something to eat right?"

Both of them stops bantering and looks at me. Yuria answers:

"Of course, in fact, please tell me what you want Master. I'll prepare it for you immediately."

"R-really!?"

Yuria folds her arm and makes a smug smile saying:

"Of course!"

I bounce back on my feet saying:

"Then it's decided. Let us have dinner. Lead the way, Yuria."

Yuria brushes her nose saying:

"Yes, Leave it to me! And we'll settle this later Kokkan."

"You took the words out of my mouth Senpai."